Lots of snow after the storm a couple days ago. You could see an indent in the snow where the trail was, but it wasn’t clear enough after a bit and we ended up blazing our own trail up to the ridge just below Devils Playground. I was moving slower than the other two guys I went with so we agreed on a turn-around time and they went up to the ridge just over the road for a glimpse of Colorado Springs. Probably they would have made it to the summit if it weren’t for blazing a new trail through the snow. We ran out of time and came back down disappointed to not summit, but the day was beautiful and you can’t complain whenever you get to spend time up at those altitudes. Reminds you of the beauty and wildness of this place, even if there is a road and shop at the very top (closed today due to ice and wind). Advice for other hikers, if there’s been a snow storm within the last few days, don’t assume the trail will be packed down- take snowshoes. Only reason for only 4 stars is because some trail markers would be helpful.

This trail is a gem not to long but the views is amazing. Today the trail was covered in snow but very passable and just a treat to hike in mid January. I did have my Yaktrax on for traction but probably did not need them with the amount of snow on the trail. It did cost $9 to get into the park and parking is hard to come by. I got there early 9 AM and did not have an issue.

I just moved here and found this hike a little challenging because of the altitude. the trail is pretty packed down so I did it in tennis shoes with no problem. a lot of people brought sleds that looked fun! I took a lot of breaks but the view was great.

For someone not used to the altitude, this hike can be more challenging than most people have rated it. It’s short, but fairly rocky and steep. Combine that with the altitude, and some breaks may be necessary. Once you reach the top though, it’s worth the effort and you’ll probably want to hang out for a bit. Beautiful hike, but don’t underestimate it!

Beautiful trail, outside of RMNP gates. First visit 1/13/19 - snow on most of the trail, well packed and well traveled. Sunny skies and warm rocks to relax on. I left my snowshoes in the car - a few slippery spots where crampons would be helpful but not bad. Lake frozen solid. Well maintained trail allowed for trail running on the way down.

Challenging hike with beautiful views! If you have a normal compact car, you’ll have to hike the Spruce Lakes Trail before getting to where the Mohawk Lakes Trail actually starts. From there, it’s a lot of climbing uphill with steep rocks, but so worth it. Definitely make sure you see the waterfall on your way up (there’s a sign for it). The lower lake was pretty easy to get to, but the trail is a little hard to see/follow for the upper lake. Saw quite a few people fishing at the upper lake when we got there. Loved it!

Great hike with beautiful views along the way. Steady increase the entire way up. There were all ages and levels of experience doing this hike. As others have mentioned, a few slick spots but I was able to get up and down easily without microspikes.

Went on a fresh snow day. It was stunning great views wildlife and moderate traffic. Under the snow there was packed ice but the drag snow kept the walk stable without having to wear spikes. Snowshoeers were out and about. I’d definitely do it again!

We were there on 1/9. The trail had some slick spots but we were able to conquer it without microspikes and they probably aren’t needed since most of the trail was dry. The lake was frozen over and absolutely beautiful. Due to the government shut down, the garbage cans at the trailhead had a bag taped over them. The bathrooms were also closed. There is an outhouse near the top, be sure to bring some toilet paper with you!

Hiked at sunset on the 13th, used lights, spikes and pole for safety on the last third due to recent snow. Steady climb all the way with frequent 10-15" step ups, although the trail is well maintained and traversed. It was a cool down hike from a great week for some perfect overlooks on the way up as the Sun set over Estes Park. We went ahead and completed the hike after pictures heading up and the lake was frozen solid as usual. Did some handstands, and headed down. Great cardio hike any day.

Trail is packed snow. We wore microspikes as did most others we saw. The last half mile is a little less packed but not worth bringing snowshoes for. The parking lot was nearly empty around 9 AM but completely full upon our return in early afternoon.

Beautiful hike, but difficult for sure (its all inclined). It was so slippery, we had to slide back down almost the whole way. The only reason I give it a 4 star & not 5 is because you cannot hardly tell where the right trail is. We ended up going off trail & freestyling up for a good 20min of steep shrub & gravel. I will do it again when its nicer outside. :)

Hiked/trail ran this 1/10/19. Snow is mostly packed so microspikes recommended, although I think more snow is changing that today. You’re in the trees with occasional peeks of Longs etc and more at the path were the flood came through. It’s fairly steady steepness in the switchback until the last mile before the saddle & then it has a few more fluctuation in flat/steep sections near the tree line & scrambles at the top. From the parking lot, it was about 3.5ish miles to the saddle between the twin sisters. I went to the West most sister first since it’s not much scrambling to get up there. Just rock scrambled up the other side. The tops are somewhat jagged/uneven & narrow so go cautiously, especially in windy conditions. Beautiful views though! I stopped to take a lot of photos but I left my car about 11:35 and got back at 3:58 (after running sections on the way down).